Dentist
Can Altuğ Kaya
Practicing aesthetic dentistry, laser-assisted dentistry and implant-supported prostheses in Alsancak, İzmir. Founding dentist of Dentorion Oral and Dental Health Polyclinic.
- Born
- 1962 · Zara
- Graduated
- 1984 · Ege University
Brushing your teeth alone cleans only three-fifths of the tooth surfaces. That is why removing the bacterial plaque and food debris that build up between the teeth, where brushing cannot reach, requires special care. Since tooth decay and gum disease often start in these areas, you should floss regularly every day.
How to Floss for a Healthy Mouth
Step One:
Take about 50 cm of floss and wind it around the middle fingers of both hands, not too tightly, leaving about 5 cm between them (wind more floss around one of your fingers).
Step Two:
Hold the floss taut with your thumbs and index fingers and gently slide it between your teeth. Be careful not to snap the floss or injure your gums.
Step Three:
Curve the floss into a 'C' shape around each tooth and gently move it up and down between the teeth; clean below the gum line as well. Use a fresh section of the floss wound around your finger for each tooth.
Flossing may feel strange at first. But keep at it! With a little patience and practice, it will start to feel as natural as brushing your teeth.
How Soon Does Flossing Show Its Benefits?
To tell the truth, flossing provides undeniable benefits from the very first day. After flossing, your teeth and gums are cleaner because floss reaches places toothbrushes cannot.
Your breath is fresher and your gum health improves. So why not pick up the floss gathering dust on your bathroom shelf and give it another try? Keep practicing even if it feels a little strange at first. Soon you will feel the difference, and flossing will become part of your daily routine.
My gums bleed when I floss; should I stop flossing if they bleed?
Bleeding gums are common when you first start flossing. It can also be a sign that you have some form of gum disease. However, after a few days of flossing your gums should become healthier and the bleeding should stop. If the bleeding continues, consult your dentist.
I've never cleaned between my teeth before. Is it too late to start?
It's never too late. Whatever your age, cleaning between your teeth brings very important benefits to your teeth and gums that you will notice right away, so the sooner you start flossing, the better.
Interdental cleaning reaches places toothbrushes cannot, providing effective cleaning and fresh breath and, above all, preventing gum disease.